2025-08-30
Harvard University
Other
/yr
employee
contract
Cambridge
Massachusetts
02163
United States
Harvard University
Title: Postdoctoral Research Positions in the Institute for Theory and Computation (ITC)
School: Faculty of Arts and Sciences
Department_Area: Harvard College Observatory/Center for Astrophysics
Position Description: Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow position in the Institute for Theory and Computation ( ITC ) at the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics. One of the primary objectives of the ITC is to integrate conceptual theory with computational modeling. We are, therefore, interested in candidates working in any field related to theoretical and/or numerical astrophysics. The successful candidate will have access to our new computing facilities and will have the opportunity to interact and work with researchers in both the Harvard College Observatory ( HCO ) and the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory ( SAO ).
We welcome applicants, who as a component of their research statement, discuss their experience in mentoring, outreach, and teaching.
Current senior members of the ITC include Harvard faculty Charles Alcock, Xingang Chen, Charlie Conroy, Liam Connor, Daniel Eisenstein, Doug Finkbeiner, Lars Hernquist, Alyssa Goodman, John Johnson, Lisa Kewley (CfA Director), John Kovac, Avi Loeb ( ITC Director), Morgan MacLeod, Ramesh Narayan, Karin Oberg, Dimitar Sasselov, Irwin Shapiro, Chris Stubbs, and Ashley Villar; as well as SAO scientists Rosanne Di Stefano, Matt Holman, Eric Keto, Fabio, Pacucci, Mark Reid, Alexey Vikhlinin, and Catherine Zucker.
The nominal starting date is September 1, 2026, but an earlier appointment is possible. The position is for one year, renewable for a second and third year, contingent on performance and funding.
The ITC Fellows pay rate is based on the current NASA NHFP guidelines.
In order to be considered for this position, all applications must be complete (including letters of reference) by November 1, 2025
Final selection will be made in early December 2025.
Basic Qualifications: Candidates must have completed their Ph.D. degree by the appointment start date; demonstrate outstanding research to the level of the position; and have the ability to identify and pursue research problems independently while working well in an interactive and dynamic setting.
Additional Qualifications: Applicants should submit a cover letter, CV, list of publications, and a research proposal explaining research interests (no page limit). Please also provide contact information for three references.
The CfA hosts a strong research program in astrophysics and provides a stimulating environment.
Special Instructions: Letters of reference should be submitted by three "referees" and must be received by the application deadline of November 1, 2025, 18:00 EST .
Contact Information: T.J. Martin
ITC Division Administrator
Contact Email: itcpostdoc@cfa.harvard.edu
Equal Opportunity Employer: Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.
Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, sex, ethnicity, color, national origin, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.
Minimum Number of References Required: 3
Maximum Number of References Allowed: 3
Supplemental Questions: Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).
Equal employment opportunity, including veterans and individuals with disabilities.
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